Partial Ingredients

Everyday Style & Recipes. Est. 2010

midi skirt

High-Low Summer // Demeter Fragrance Review

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It’s almost September and I’m feeling a bit ambivalent since I still have a bunch of Summer looks in the pipeline that I haven’t posted yet, waah. It seems to be always the way where Fall kind of catches up with me. That said, I am so excited to get going on all the Fall things which are just around the corner! It has thankfully cooled down a bit lately but the days still reach well into the mid-upper 80’s. For now, I’m still all about the Summer vibes with this vintage high-low asymmetrical midi dress. Also love the classic t-shirt and skirt combo — there’s just something timeless about it and will always look fresh. This combo is a must have for the toasty weather we’ve had all Summer, especially when you add a pair of comfy sandals to the mix, like these flats from Abercrombie. I also like to add a small belt with skirts to tie everything together. While I am looking forward to Fall looks, I want to try to make Summer last as long as possible!

In other news, I recently tried out a bunch of different Demeter Fragrances. I have to hand it to Demeter, they do a great job at recreating some of the more unique scents in life. They have a dizzying amount of varieties but I selected a few of the ones that I was most curious about. Another cool thing about Demeter are all the formats you can choose from. You can buy each fragrance in a variety of sizes, or as a body wash, diffuser oil, roll-on or even lotion! That’s pretty cool. An overall impression of these fragrances are that they simply don’t linger very long on the skin, but they will stay longer on fabrics. A quick rundown of the ones I tried, from left to right:

Laundromat: This one is spooky accurate. If you’ve ever been inside a commercial laundromat, there’s a heady, humid feeling of wet clothes, detergent and dryer smells that fill the air. I would say this scent captures the atmosphere of the laundromat, rather than fresh laundry if that makes sense. It has quickly turned into one of my favorites and I often use this one to freshen up clothing and bedding. 5/5

Tomato: I grew tomatoes in the garden this year and I love their unique, almost spicy smell. This perfume comes really, really close to mimicking that scent but I wish there was just a little bit more green and peppery vibes. I feel like this perfume evokes the leaves of the plant, rather than the fruit itself which is what I had hoped for. Unfortunately this one has the worst staying power out of the five which is a bummer. Overall, this perfume does convey that essential tomatoey-ness so I definitely recommend if you are also a Tomato fan. 4/5

Fuzzy Navel: This fragrance is one of their more popular scents and they threw this into my order for free which was thoughtful! It’s pretty hard to rate this one since I’m not really into gourmand or fruity fragrances, but it has a very fresh, watery peachy orange scent. I guess this one is meant to capture the alcoholic drink, but I don’t get much of the vodka thing from it. Leaving this unrated since fruity fragrances just aren’t my thing but I wouldn’t knock it either.

Linden: This one is also one of their more popular varieties and there’s good reason for it. Boy, do I love this one. I spray it on my pillow/PJs like every night so yep definitely a fanboy. This fragrance is hard to describe but it’s a little bit greenery, a little bit Summer sunshine with hints of Lily of the Valley. I honestly have no idea what actual Linden blossoms smell like, but this fragrance is absolutely gorgeous. I feel like this one sums up the height of Summer, and I bet I will love this one even more in January to remind myself of warmer and greener times. 5/5

Paperback: I had high hopes for this one and really wondered if they could nail the smell of a fresh paperback book. I pictured this to smell like dust and aged paper (think old book shop) but unfortunately all I got from this was ‘vanilla candle.’ Such a bummer! Maybe I’m missing something, but this fragrance bears no resemblance to a paperback for me. Argh, I am so bummed out by this. I don’t mind the vanilla scent per se, it was just not what I was expecting at all. 2/5

Outfit Details: Shirt: American Eagle; Skirt: Vintage Blue Brand/Thrifted; Shoes: Abercrombie; Bag: LeatherStrata

Linen & Silk

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All dressed up and nowhere to go = the current theme of the month(s) due to COVID-19. But that’s alright, sometimes when you’re #socialdistancing it’s important to put on something nice to feel normal again. The latest Spring look features a few of the best quality materials to go for — linen and silk! Don’t buy full price though since these can get pricey! You can find great deals online for well made clothing, like this top from Everlane which was on clearance for a big discount. Gotta love when clearance items are still available in your size! This top is light and breezy and so perfect for Summer that I’m almost looking forward to hotter weather to try it out. I sized down on this top and I’m glad I did since it’s meant to fit fairly loose.

The skirt and shoes were found at Roolee, a boutique online store, which has tons of great items for reasonable prices. I was overall happy with the quality of the skirt and shoes — especially the skirt which is made from a linen blend and comes with pockets. I am aaalways a fan of skirts/dresses that have decent pockets. The material is super breathable and perfect for Summertime, the beach…picnics–you name it!

Outfit Details: Top: Everlane; Skirt: Roolee; Shoes; Roolee; Watch: Stock Watches

Inside Life

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After moving to a new place, decor and furniture are still works in progress–hence this outfit shoot was all about the minimalism! Plus, when January hits I’m pretty much over Winter stuff and just want Spring already! This midi skirt from Adored Vintage is one of my favorite every day skirts that lends itself well to more minimalist looks. I also love the pattern! I have this weird thing about polka dots where in order for me to be on board, the dots needs to be small and unevenly spaced. Is that super weird/OCD? Probably, oh well.

Anywaaays, to complete this look I threw on a basic ribbed pullover top from Forever 21. The ribs/stripes are a nice way to add in some subtle pattern mixing/texture while not actually doing full on pattern mixing (but I am a fan of that too!). Forever 21 is so great with these staple items for your closet–especially semi-cropped tops like these. I like to wear shorter tops with skirts (especially the high-waisted kind) so there isn’t a whole lot of fabric to tuck in and make it messy. This look was meant to be worn while out on a warm, Spring day — now all I need is for it to be April to make it work!

Outfit Details: Top: Forever21; Skirt: Adored Vintage; Bag: Live Fashionable Mamuye Tote; Shoes: Matisse

Sky Blue Sky

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Midi skirts and graphic tees have been my jam like all Summer. I think I’ve come to embrace midi and maxi length skirts more than shorter skirts lately. It could be a product of getting older but I just find longer length skirts to be way more flexible in terms of every day wear. I can wear them to work and then go out later and there’s no self-consciousness about the length. To me it’s all about comfort and not feeling self-conscious wherever I am. Skirts that run a bit too short just make me worried about strong gusts (lol) or whether or not I’m dressed appropriately. And ain’t nobody got time for that!

This skirt from Adored Vintage isn’t a color I would normally wear but I’ve come to love the robin’s egg hue. It just happens to be a perfect match with this awesome NASA Tee from Urban Outfitters! Gotta love the old NASA designs. A cool graphic tee works great with most outfits but I love them when paired with more feminine pieces. They’ve become a Summertime staple for me and below are a few of my favorites. Don’t forget the sneakers too!

Outfit Details: Tee: Urban Outfitters; Skirt: Adored Vintage; Shoes: Converse Allstars; bag: Vintage, Gap

Summer Whites & Linen

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The Colorado sun is burning hot this time of year and that calls for lightweight skirts, cold drinks and shady porches. This flowing midi skirt from Adored Vintage is a perfect option for hot Summer days. It’s a bit longer than the typical midi skirt and fits more like a 3/4 maxi. It’s lightweight and flowy–the perfect Summer option! Why wear light colored clothing in the Summer? From what I’ve read, they doesn’t absorb the sun’s rays like black or dark colored clothes. Another Summery material I’ve been a big fan of lately has been linen. Linen is a breathable fabric and great for hotter days. This shirt was a lucky find from Etsy and looks great tied in the front.

Speaking of Etsy, this post is going to be pretty much all about the latest Etsy finds (stores linked at the end of this post). Another recent score was this leather cross-body bag. I’ve been on the hunt for a medium size cross-body/saddle bag and this one has everything I was looking for. It’s also affordable and goes with just about everything, so big win there! I recently upgraded my sun hat from the Etsy shop, LaMar Lifestyle, and it’s a great wide brimmed hat that offers a good amount of sun protection. It’s a must have for pale folks when sun screen just won’t cut it alone. This shop also has the best accessories for your day at the beach, including handwoven mules and beach blankets. It’s worth checking out!

The best affordable peachy rose Summer blush from ELF for the chronically pale. Don’t forget the SPF underneath! Purchase here.
La Mar Lifestyle Etsy shop for beach and sun lovers!
Outfit Details: Top: Vintage, Etsy – PerennialVintage; Skirt: Adored Vintage; Shoes: Lucky Brand; Bag: Etsy – Leather Strata; Hat: Etsy – LaMar Lifestyle

Lavender Vintage

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It has been such an odd Spring season that even the folks who were born and raised here in town are weirded out.  You know it’s abnormal when even the locals are remaking on it!  On the days I have been able to wear Springy stuff, I always jump at the chance to wear pretty skirts and sandals.  This one from Adored Vintage has been one of my go-to midi skirts this Spring!  I am loving the pastel floral vibes, and the button front look.  It gives a bit of a vintage feel without looking dated or costumey.  Adored Vintage has been one of my favorite recent vintage shops lately, they really have some lovely offerings.

Recently I’ve been into oversized linen blouses with tie-front waists.  This one from Perennial Vintage on Etsy came a bit too oversized to wear as-is (I think it might actually be a men’s shirt, but oh well.)  I loved the sage color so I didn’t want to return it.  All was not lost though, there is a trick to taking in too large blouses.  I just roll up the sleeves and tie up the front ends and behold–a much more fitted, wearable shirt!  Beats having to learn how to sew and tailor right?  Tie front shirts look fab with skirts, shorts, and jeans….soooo pretty much everything!

Outfit Set: Outfit Details: Top: Etsy/vintage Skirt: Adored Vintage Shoes: Amazon Bag: Etsy/vintage

For Warmer Fall Days: Floral Midi Skirt & Layers

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Last weekend was incredibly nice: the leaves on the aspens were transitioning from yellow to brown, it was in the upper 60’s, with a mild breeze–you couldn’t ask for a better Fall day!  That said, I wanted to show what you can do on days like these in terms of what you can get away with wearing.  You never know with Colorado where the weather changes at the drop of a hat, but some days are just consistently perfect!

This skirt from Zara is great for this kind of weather since it’s a little bit heavier and longer than a typical midi skirt.  Plus it has some great Fall vibes.  I love this vintage floral pattern and the color!  The pattern really pops against neutral tones, so I chose a cozy, dark (taupe-ish?) Cardigan from American Eagle to complete this look.  This cardigan is super comfy, and goes great with skirts.  Whenever shirts or cardigans err on the longer and bulkier side (like this one), I like to just front tie to make them less bulky and more versatile.  For added layers, I like to throw on a loop scarf like this comfy olive toned one as well.


Outfit Set:Outfit Details: Cardigan: American Eagle, Skirt: Zara, Shoes: Free People, Scarf: Amazon

Dusty Rose Midi

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Just when I think I have enough tank tops, a new one pops up that inspires brand new ideas and outfit inspiration and I have to snap it up. Dang it, they just keep pulling me back in with these pretty patterns! I am definitely a sucker for pretty dark florals–it’s a bit of an obsession. Thank goodness tanks can be easily stored and don’t pose too much of a storage problem (unlike shoes, but that’s another story). This is actually one of my favorite floral patterns and is the perfect length to pair with a cardigan, pants or a skirt. It’s just short enough to be tucked into a skirt without a lot of extra fabric floating around underneath (for some reason this really annoys me when this happens–I could be the only one).

Now that it’s mid-March, I have been craving a lot of warmer weather outfits that also won’t cause you to freeze your butt off if the weather goes south (or North might be more accurate). Midi skirts paired with layered tops like cardigans, tanks and jackets make for a good compromise for the the early Spring months. I have been into rose and tan color combos for Spring and darker florals that usually pop up in the Fall for a surprise Spring appearance as well. But really, when isn’t it a good time to wear pretty florals? All year sounds perfectly good to me!  To complete the look I added these great minimalist sunnies from Civion and an incredibly comfy pair of Steve Madden loafers that really can’t be beat.

Outfit Details: Cardigan: Bajee Collection, Skirt: Forever 21, Tank Top: American Eagle, Shoes: Steve Madden, Bag: Hustle & Hide, Sunglasses: Civion

Outfit Set:

Piece of My Heart

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I’ve been liking the resurgence of band tees paired with more feminine looks recently. Midi skirts paired with bright, graphic tees are a personal favorite of mine. The one issue is that I’m super picky about the material, what’s on my t-shirts–especially when it comes to band shirts. I feel like in order for me to feel comfortable to wear a band shirt I should be able to name off an album or a favorite song if someone happens to ask. That just seems fair to the artist, right? You gotta at least know and like the band’s stuff if you are endorsing them on your clothes. Well I guess that’s just my own personal standard. Another thing I’m super picky about is the material. Gotta have that soft, thin cotton. Hate that rough stuff! This shirt is 100% cotton but is also super soft.

I never really listened to Janis Joplin much when I was younger but in the last few years I’ve really come to regard her as one of my favorite rock stars. A few documentaries about her life and a few album downloads later I became a fan. After listening to her records I was amazed at her ability to express that amount of feeling through her voice. I wish I could time travel back to one of her concerts, but alas, I was born almost two decades too late.

Besides her music, she had a pretty great sense of style and developed her own unique look. I didn’t have any feathers on hand but I feel like she might have liked these leopard print flats (though she might have preferred low heels). I personally like the little bit of pattern mixing that works perfectly with the tee. This outfit is relaxed enough to wear out and about but also fits in well as a possible festival look. Probably not something Janis was concerned about but versatility is always a plus in my book!

Outfit Set: 

Outfit Details: T-Shirt: Amazon, Skirt: eBay, Shoes: Joie, Bag: Etsy, Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

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Spring Greens

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Spring is one of my favorite times of the year and this season has been especially great due to all the rain we got this past winter. I wanted to showcase my favorite midi skirt in a perfect olive green as well as some awesome wild edible plants growing right now. I love the midi skirt trend since I live in a really windy area and just, you kind of need a little extra length for that you know? Without tights, flowy skirts above the knee can get a little bit risqué ’round these parts when the wind hits above 15mph. But I digress, the midi skirt trend is one of my favorites because they work so well with so many different outfits. Forget about frumpy, there’s lots of ways to dress up the midi skirt in a very non librarian-ish way. I paired this skirt with a simple black and white striped “Breton” style shirt and some beautiful Frye ballet flats. I’ve always had a bit of a long distance love affair with Frye and I recently found these flats on sale and I couldn’t pass them up. My favorite sun hat and vintage leather engraved bag completes this look. 

Since living in California I’ve been able to learn more about the local edible plants and have found a bunch that I routinely pick and use in cooking. The following are a few that I find most often. Rosemary and sage are drought tolerant plants and grow in large bushes all over in California. I find Black Sage most often along sunny, dry trails. Fennel is also something I find really frequently along trails in dry areas too. You can usually smell the licorice-y scent of them if they are growing in the area. All of these wild herbs are amazing to cook with. I like to use them in soups and meat dishes. After picking, I hang them together with twine to dry them out slowly and use them as needed. Another amazing find I’ve been enjoying recently is picking Miner’s lettuce for salads. It is a delicate little plant shaped like tiny lily pads. To me it tastes like a milder, sweeter arugula. I usually find it growing in secretive, shady spots along trails. They dry out with any direct sunlight and hot weather so I don’t expect this year’s batch to last much longer. Since miner’s lettuce is better eaten raw than cooked, throw it in your salad if you can find it. It is so delish and I almost prefer the flavor to arugula. As a disclaimer, I don’t endorse picking and eating wild plants without the required knowledge so be mindful of what you’re collecting and make sure you know exactly what you’re eating.

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